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Commentary on 2 Samuel 2 verses 8–17
Here is, I. A rivalship between two kings - David, whom God made king, and Ishbosheth, whom Abner made king. One would have thought, when Saul was slain, and all his sons that had sense and spirit enough to take the field with him, David would come to the throne without any opposition, since all Israel knew, not only how he had signalized himself, but how manifestly God had designated him to it; but such a spirit of contradiction is there, in the devices of men, to the counsels of God, that such a weak and silly thing as Ishbosheth, who was not thought fit to go with his father to the battle, shall yet be thought fit to succeed him in the government, rather than David shall come peaceably to it. Herein David's kingdom was typical of the Messiah's, against which the heathens rage and the rulers take counsel, Psa 2:1, Psa 2:2. 1. Abner was the person who set up Ishbosheth in competition with David, perhaps in his zeal for the lineal succession (since they must have a king like the nations, in this they must be like them, that the crown must descend from father to son), or rather in his affection to his own family and relations (for he was Saul's uncle), and because he had no other way to secure to himself the post of honour he was in, as captain of the host. See how much mischief the pride and ambition of one man may be the occasion of. Ishbosheth would never have set up himself if Abner had not set him up, and made a tool of him to serve his own purposes. 2. Mahanaim, the place where he first made his claim, was on the other side Jordan, where it was thought David had the least interest, and being at a distance from his forces they might have time to strengthen themselves. But having set up his standard there, the unthinking people of all the tribes of Israel (that is, the generality of them) submitted to him (Sa2 2:9), and Judah only was entirely for David. This was a further trial of the faith of David in the promise of God, and of his patience, whether he could wait God's time for the performance of that promise. 3. Some difficulty there is about the time of the continuance of this competition. David reigned about seven years over Judah only (Sa2 2:11), and yet (Sa2 2:10) Ishbosheth reigned over Israel but two years: before those two years, or after, or both, it was in general for the house of Saul (Sa2 3:6), and not any particular person of that house, that Abner declared. Or these two years he reigned before the war broke out (Sa2 2:12), which continued long, even the remaining five years, Sa2 3:1.
II. An encounter between their two armies.
1.It does not appear that either side brought their whole force into the field, for the slaughter was but small, Sa2 2:30, Sa2 2:31. We may wonder, (1.) That the men of Judah did not appear and act more vigorously for David, to reduce all the nation into obedience to him; but, it is likely, David would not suffer them to act offensively, choosing rather to wait till the thing would do itself or rather till God would do it for him, without the effusion of Israelitish blood; for to him, as a type of Christ, that was very precious, Psa 72:14. Even those that were his adversaries he looked upon as his subjects, and would treat them accordingly. (2.) That the men of Israel could in a manner stand neuter, and sit down tamely under Ishbosheth, for so many years, especially considering what characters many of the tribes displayed at this time (as we find, Ch1 12:23, etc.): Wise men, mighty men, men of valour, expert in war, and not of double heart, and yet for seven years together, for aught that appears, most of them seemed indifferent in whose hand the public administration was. Divine Providence serves its own purposes by the stupidity of men at some times and the activity of the same persons at other times; they are unlike themselves, and yet the motions of Providence are uniform.
2.In this battle Abner was the aggressor. David sat still to see how the matter would fall, but the house of Saul, and Abner at the head of it, gave the challenge, and they went by the worst. Therefore go not forth hastily to strive, nor be forward to begin quarrels, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, Pro 25:8. A fool's lips and hands enter into contention.
3.The seat of the war was Gibeon. Abner chose it because it was in the lot of Benjamin, where Saul had the most friends; yet, since he offered battle, Joab, David's general, would not decline it, but there joined issue with him, and met him by the pool of Gibeon, Sa2 2:13. David's cause, being built upon God's promise, feared not the disadvantages of the ground. The pool between them gave both sides time to deliberate.
4.The engagement was at first proposed by Abner, and accepted by Joab, to be between twelve and twelve of a side. (1.) It should seem this trial of skill began in sport. Abner made the motion (Sa2 2:14): Let the young men arise and play before us, as gladiators. Perhaps Saul had used his men to these barbarous pastimes, like a tyrant indeed, and Abner had learnt of him to make a jest of wounds and death and divert himself with the scenes of blood and horror. He meant, "Let them fight before us," when he said, "Let them play before us." Fools thus make a mock at sin. but he is unworthy the name of a man that can be thus prodigal of human blood, that can thus throw about firebrands, arrows, and death, and say, Am not I in sport? Pro 26:18, Pro 26:19. Joab, having been bred up under David, had so much wisdom as not to make such a proposal, yet had not resolution enough to resist and gainsay it when another made it; for he stood upon a point of honour, and thought it a blemish to his reputation to refuse a challenge, and therefore said, Let them arise; not that he was fond of the sport, or expected that the duels would be decisive, but he would not be hectored by his antagonist. How many precious lives have thus been sacrificed to the caprices of proud men! Twelve of each side were accordingly called out as champions to enter the lists, a double jury of life and death, not of others', but their own; and the champions on Abner's side seem to have been most forward, for they took the field first (Sa2 2:15), having perhaps been bred up in a foolish ambition thus to serve the humour of their commander-in-chief. But, (2.) However it began, it ended in blood (Sa2 2:16): They thrust every man his sword into his fellow's side (spurred on by honour, not by enmity); so they fell down together, that is, all the twenty-four were slain, such an equal match were they for one another, and so resolute, that neither side would either beg or give quarter; they did as it were by agreement (says Josephus) dispatch one another with mutual wounds. Those that strike at other men's lives often throw away their own and death only conquers and rides in triumph. The wonderful obstinacy of both sides was remembered in the name given to the place: Heldath-hazzurim - the field of rocky men, men that were not only strong in body, but of firm and unshaken constancy, that stirred not at the sight of death. Yet the stout-hearted were spoiled, and slept their sleep, Psa 76:5. Poor honour for men to purchase at so vast an expense! Those that lose their lives for Christ shall find them.
5.The whole army at length engaged, and Abner's forces were routed, Sa2 2:17. The former was a drawn battle, in which all were killed on both sides, and therefore they must put it upon another trial, in which (as it often happens) those that gave the challenge went away with loss. David had God on his side; his side therefore was victorious.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 2:17 records the climactic and decisive outcome of a fierce battle between the forces loyal to Ish-bosheth, led by Abner, and the burgeoning army of David, commanded by Joab. This verse marks a critical turning point in the nascent civil war that erupted after King Saul's death, signifying a profound defeat for the house of Saul and a powerful affirmation of divine favor upon David, further solidifying his claim to the throne over all Israel. The intensity of the conflict and the clear victory for David's servants underscore the unfolding of God's sovereign plan to establish His chosen king.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the early chapters of 2 Samuel, which meticulously chronicle the tumultuous transition of power from the fallen house of Saul to the divinely appointed house of David. The immediate preceding narrative (2 Samuel 2:12-16) sets the stage with a peculiar and deadly "contest" at the Pool of Gibeon, where twelve champions from each side engaged in a brutal, ritualized combat that resulted in all twenty-four men perishing simultaneously. This initial, perhaps intended, resolution quickly escalated into a full-scale, widespread battle, the summary outcome of which is provided in 2 Samuel 2:17. The subsequent verses (2 Samuel 2:18-23) detail the tragic pursuit of Abner by Joab's swift-footed brother, Asahel, culminating in Asahel's death at Abner's hand. This event further entrenches the animosity between the two leading generals, Joab and Abner, and foreshadows future bloodshed. The entire chapter vividly portrays the bitter civil war that gripped Israel, highlighting the fierce loyalties, personal vendettas, and the tragic cost of national division.
Historical & Cultural Context: The death of King Saul and his sons at the Battle of Gilboa (1 Samuel 31) created a significant power vacuum and a period of profound instability in Israel. David, having been previously anointed by Samuel (1 Samuel 16), was subsequently crowned king over Judah in Hebron (2 Samuel 2:1-4). However, the northern tribes, under the shrewd political and military influence of Saul's powerful general, Abner, rallied behind Saul's surviving son, Ish-bosheth, proclaiming him king over Israel (2 Samuel 2:8-10). This established two rival kingdoms: the "house of David" centered in Hebron and the "house of Saul" based in Mahanaim, initiating a protracted and bloody civil war. The battle described in 2 Samuel 2:17 was a major engagement in this broader conflict, reflecting the deep-seated political and military struggle for legitimate authority over the unified tribes of Israel. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a decisive military victory like this was not merely a tactical success but a powerful indicator of divine favor and a significant step towards legitimizing the victor's claim to ultimate rule.
Key Themes: The events of 2 Samuel 2:17 contribute significantly to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of 2 Samuel. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of Divine Sovereignty and the Establishment of David's Kingdom. The clear and decisive defeat of Abner's forces, despite their initial numerical strength or strategic position, implicitly points to God's active hand in orchestrating David's ascendancy. This victory is a tangible step in the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David, which are more fully articulated later in the Davidic Covenant. Secondly, the verse highlights the tragic theme of Civil Strife and Division, demonstrating the painful and destructive consequences when God's people are fractured by competing loyalties and power struggles. This internal conflict serves as a sobering precursor to later divisions within Israel, such as the rebellion of Absalom detailed in 2 Samuel 15. Finally, this battle underscores the Ascendancy of David's House and the Decline of Saul's House, a pervasive theme throughout the early books of Samuel. This particular engagement marks a crucial turning point, significantly weakening Ish-bosheth's rule and paving the way for the eventual unification of all Israel under David's kingship, as recorded in 2 Samuel 5:1-5.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs Narrative Economy by succinctly summarizing the outcome of a major battle in a single, impactful statement. Rather than detailing the ebb and flow of the fight, the narrator focuses on the decisive result, highlighting its significance without dwelling on the mechanics of warfare. This brevity serves to emphasize the consequence of the battle—Abner's definitive defeat and David's growing ascendancy—rather than the process. Furthermore, there is an Implicit Divine Hand at play. While the text does not explicitly state, "God gave David the victory," the consistent narrative of God's choice of David and the repeated successes of David's forces against seemingly superior numbers or established powers strongly imply divine favor and orchestration. The defeat of Abner, the primary obstacle to David's unified kingship, functions as a powerful form of Foreshadowing, signaling the inevitable decline of the house of Saul and the ultimate triumph of David's divinely appointed reign. The stark Contrast between the "very sore battle" (implying difficulty and intense struggle) and the ultimate, clear victory for David's men underscores the power of the winning side and the futility of resisting God's chosen path.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The decisive victory of David's servants over Abner and the men of Israel in this "very sore battle" is far more than a mere military triumph; it is a profound theological statement about God's sovereign hand in history. It demonstrates that God actively works to fulfill His promises and establish His chosen instruments, even amidst human conflict, political maneuvering, and civil strife. This event serves as a powerful reminder that while humans may contend for power and engage in fierce struggles, the ultimate outcome rests with the Lord, who "removes kings and sets up kings" (Daniel 2:21). The defeat of Abner's forces, representing a formidable resistance to God's anointed, underscores the futility of opposing divine will and the certainty of God's unfolding plan for David's kingdom. This battle is a testament to the truth that God's purposes will prevail, regardless of the obstacles.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of this "very sore battle" and its decisive outcome offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today. Just as David's men faced a formidable opponent in Abner and the forces of Israel, we too encounter "sore battles" in our lives—whether they are spiritual struggles against temptation and the forces of evil, personal trials of faith and endurance, or societal conflicts that challenge our convictions and values. This narrative encourages us to remember that even in the most intense and difficult circumstances, God's purposes will ultimately prevail. Our victories, like David's, are not solely due to our strength, ingenuity, or strategic prowess, but to the divine favor and sovereignty of God who fights on our behalf and orchestrates outcomes according to His perfect will. It calls us to trust implicitly in God's ultimate plan, even when the path is fraught with conflict and uncertainty, and to align ourselves with His will, rather than resisting it. Furthermore, this historical account serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of division, even among those who claim to serve the same God, reminding us of the paramount importance of seeking unity, pursuing peace, and submitting to God's appointed leadership within our communities and the broader church.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who was Abner, and why was his defeat so significant?
Answer: Abner was King Saul's cousin and the commander of his army, making him a highly influential and powerful figure in Israel. After Saul's death, Abner took the political and military initiative to crown Saul's surviving son, Ish-bosheth, as king over the northern tribes, effectively creating a rival kingdom to David's rule in Judah. His defeat in this "very sore battle" was profoundly significant because it represented a major blow to the house of Saul and its claim to the throne. Abner was the military backbone and primary political strategist for Ish-bosheth, so his loss of this battle, and later his life (as recounted in 2 Samuel 3:27), directly weakened Ish-bosheth's position and paved the way for David's eventual unification of all Israel. It signaled that the tide of the civil war was turning decisively in David's favor, demonstrating God's hand in establishing His chosen king.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The "very sore battle" in 2 Samuel 2:17, culminating in Abner's defeat and the triumph of David's servants, serves as a powerful Old Testament foreshadowing of the ultimate, decisive victory won by Jesus Christ. Just as David, God's anointed king, faced opposition and a protracted struggle before fully establishing his earthly kingdom, so too did Christ, the true Son of David and King of kings, face immense spiritual warfare and human resistance. His ultimate "sore battle" was not fought with swords and spears on a physical battlefield, but on the cross, where He endured the full wrath of God against sin and the relentless assault of Satan. There, He decisively "beat" the powers of darkness, sin, and death, disarming them and leading captivity captive, triumphing over them by the cross itself (as described in Colossians 2:15 and Ephesians 4:8). The victory of David's servants over Abner's forces, which secured David's earthly reign and paved the way for a unified Israel, points to Christ's eternal triumph over all spiritual adversaries, ensuring the establishment of His everlasting kingdom, which will have no end (referenced in Revelation 11:15). Through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, Jesus secured a victory far greater than any earthly battle, enabling all who believe in Him to share in His triumph and live under the gracious and righteous reign of the true, eternal King (as promised in John 16:33 and Romans 8:37).